Durock Blue Lotus vs. KTT Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Orange. The Blue Lotus switches from Durock are renowned for their impressive combination of tactile intensity and quick responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches offer a distinctive tactile feel that appeals to enthusiasts. Additionally, they feature a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, which adds to their visual appeal. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches come with a 22mm long spring that provides a bouncy typing experience. Their polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vibrant orange nylon bottom housing contribute to a slick and frictionless typing experience. These switches also offer a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches excel in their respective categories, offering distinct advantages. However, to make an informed decision about the best switch for you, let's explore their characteristics in more detail.

By the numbers

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

KTT Orange Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Orange switches have distinct differences in their housing materials, resulting in unique sound profiles and aesthetics. The Blue Lotus features a top housing made of a modified PC and UPE blend, which offers a premium feel and contributes to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Orange switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials impacts the sound produced when you release a key, making the Blue Lotus switch ideal for those seeking a more distinctive sound experience while the Orange switch is preferable for a sharper and more precise sound.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Blue Lotus incorporates a nylon material, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which brings a sharper and crisper sound to the equation. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant and articulate sound profile. If you're someone who prioritizes a softer and fuller sound experience, the Blue Lotus with its nylon bottom housing is the better choice. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch with its polycarbonate bottom housing offers a brighter and more precise sound.

While the Durock Blue Lotus and the KTT Orange switches have contrasting housing materials, there are also similarities to be noted. Both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing, ensuring a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, if you prioritize RGB lighting effects in your setup, both the Blue Lotus and the Orange switch would deliver similar results. Nevertheless, the material differences in the top and bottom housing of these switches bring their unique qualities to the typing experience, making them suitable for different preferences and requirements.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Blue Lotus requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Orange requires 46 grams, making the Orange lighter in terms of actuation force. Similarly, the Blue Lotus has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Orange has a bottom out force of 53 grams, again making the Orange lighter in this aspect as well. The Blue Lotus can be considered medium-heavy in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Orange falls into the medium-light category.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Orange would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This lighter actuation force may be beneficial for individuals who spend long periods typing, such as using the keyboard at work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel, may opt for the Blue Lotus due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

In terms of similarities, both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, while the specific forces may differ, individuals seeking a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements can achieve comparable results with either switch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. For those who prioritize responsiveness, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may be the preferred option. However, some users may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In that case, the Blue Lotus switch's slightly longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are known for their deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses. This lower frequency range adds depth and richness to the sound, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which is characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The specific sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer unique sound qualities, with the Blue Lotus providing a bassy tone and the Orange delivering a low-pitched sound.

Moving on to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are described as accented, snappy, and stepped. Being accented means that these tactile switches provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This allows for a noticeable tactile bump during key presses without it being too pronounced. In addition, the Blue Lotus switches are snappy, offering a highly responsive typing experience. This snappiness is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the liveliness of each keystroke. Lastly, the stepped characteristic of these switches means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a mild tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are described as bouncy and frictionless. The bouncy feedback sensation of these switches gives them a spring-like or elastic feel, providing a lively rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switches offer a frictionless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction, thanks to their factory-lubing and smooth key travel. Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus switches offer a snappy and mildly tactility, while the KTT Orange switches provide a bouncy and fluid typing experience.

In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches deliver a pronounced tactile feel with their accented and stepped characteristics, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. The switches also have a bassy sound profile, adding richness to the auditory aspect. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switches offer a smooth and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile for a mellower tone. While the two switches differ in their tactile and auditory qualities, both provide unique and enjoyable experiences. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the satisfying tactility and bassy sound of the Blue Lotus or the smoothness and low-pitched sound of the KTT Orange switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a marked tactile feel and vibrant RGB illumination, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and accented tactile experience, with a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Blue Lotus switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their slightly reduced travel distance and medium-heavy actuation force. Additionally, they provide a bassy sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a slick and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a fluid and bouncy feel, thanks to their long pole POM stem and excellent factory-lubing. Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Lotus and Orange switches depends on your preference for tactile feedback, sound, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Blue Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more